Ashoka's Venture Fund for Leading Social Entrepreneurs

Risks
The risks associated with the Venture Fund are two-fold: the general risk associated with
Ashoka’s investment in individuals and the performance of the Venture program in any given
year. For the former, the Ashoka selection process is designed to source and screen new
system changing ideas to create lasting social impact. It addresses significant uncertainties
in terms of program efficacy, due diligence, long-term viability, and long-term replicability,
resulting in Ashoka Fellows who represent the apex of the field of social entrepreneurship and
innovation in the social sector.
Ashoka has 27 years of experience mitigating risk for our partners and investors. Ashoka’s
methods of finding and supporting the world’s leading social entrepreneurs are tried and tested
around the world under varying circumstances. From the first year, we have rigorously, and
successfully, fought against all forms of discrimination and violence and maintained staunch
political independence. However, we fully recognize the nature of the world in which we work.
To this end, Ashoka is addressing the counterterrorism compliance and risk management
challenges of being a global organization.
With the assistance of strategic partner, Latham & Watkins LLP, Ashoka formulated a
comprehensive counterterrorism compliance program for Ashoka. Upon counsel’s advice,
Ashoka has adopted a series of policies that will help ensure that Ashoka’s global activities are
in compliance with US, EU, UN, and other regulations. Ashoka has contracted with ChoicePoint
Bridger Insight, a leading global compliance and risk management solutions company. Ashoka
is building its compliance department to screen all monetary transactions as well as staff,
associates, consultants, Fellows and candidates.
Ashoka’s counterterrorism compliance program includes:
• A screen for donors, investment recipients, and beneficiary organizations against terrorism
watch lists. We continue to follow all relevant reporting guidelines for cash and other
monetary transactions.
• No engagement in new countries without full assessment of relevant legal guidelines. We
consult with local and international counsel if necessary to be clear on our liability and risk
in entering new countries.
• Continuing to certify that resources are only given to individuals or organizations that will
further our stated mission and goals.